Actor Andrew Garfield appeared to take a dig at Harry Potter creator J.K. Rowling during a recent podcast interview.
The 42-year-old discussed his newfound appreciation for the films based on Rowling’s best-selling books. While Garfield praised the cast, including Daniel Radcliffe, he refrained from naming the creator, citing her controversial political views.
His comments quickly went viral online and sparked a heated debate, particularly as fans had hoped to see Garfield play a fan-favorite character in HBO’s reboot of the franchise.
Andrew Garfield seemingly shaded Harry Potter creator J.K. Rowling
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On Wednesday (March 25), Garfield appeared on the My Life In Movies podcast, where he discussed his career and love for cinema.
During the conversation, the former Spider-Man actor revealed he hadn’t watched the Harry Potter films until recently. He praised Radcliffe’s performance as the titular wizard, along with the story’s themes.
“Those Harry Potter movies are really good,” he said.
However, he noted that discussing the films indirectly benefited Rowling. Garfield refused to name her while complimenting the “many beautiful artists” who worked on the franchise, which has grossed over $7.7 billion globally.
Image credits: Murray Close/ Getty Images
“I know it’s like controversial and like we shouldn’t be, you know, putting money in the pocket of inhumane legislation right now through she that shall remain nameless,” he stated.
In the past, Rowling’s comments on gender identity have been criticized. She has also allegedly used her earnings from the franchise to fund anti-transgender organization, which Garfield appeared to reference.
Andrew Garfield’s statement on J.K. Rowling proves controversial on social media
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Garfield’s statement quickly went viral, garnering more than 2 million views on X.
Several netizens criticized his comment and sided with Rowling, calling out the actor for what they described as unnecessary virtue signaling.
“JK Rowling built the entire world these actors and crew got rich from, and now they throw her under the bus for speaking basic biology. Pathetic Hollywood virtue signaling at its finest,” one user wrote.
Another stated, “OMFG she’s not Voldemort. SAY HER NAME!”
On the other hand, some fans defended Garfield, praising him for separating the art from the artist while sharing his honest thoughts.
“Andrew Garfield is walking that line perfectly, acknowledging the talent and artistry of the Harry Potter films while distancing himself from Rowling’s controversial positions. Smart, respectful, and pointed,” one user noted.
Fans no longer want Andrew Garfield to play a major character in the Harry Potter reboot
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Garfield has been a popular casting choice for HBO’s upcoming Harry Potter series. According to some fans, he is an ideal fit to portray Remus Lupin, a mentor to Harry and a crucial member of the Order of the Phoenix.
During a 2021 interview with Wired, Garfield first floated the idea of playing a young Remus Lupin in a potential spin-off project.
“That’s a sweet thought, and I appreciate your consideration,” he said.
Image credits: Warner Bros. Pictures
Garfield later confirmed his interest in appearing in the reboot during a 2024 chat with Vogue.
He stated, “I will consider any role offered.”
Following his controversial comment, several fans opposed the idea of Garfield appearing in a project based on Rowling’s creation.
Since Lupin doesn’t appear until the third book, the HBO series has yet to announce the casting. Given the reboot’s already controversial cast, adding Garfield will likely earn it further backlash.
The Harry Potter films are streaming on HBO Max.
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